One thing that I think is really crucial right now is building a team of experts around you to help you navigate the current situation – and this is where PR really comes in. You will be looking for people who you know, like and trust; who have built great relationships and a strong reputation by putting themselves out there.
It’s about building a team of people in terms of content and influence, that help you feel good.
When this all started, it went a bit quiet while people worked out what they needed to do. Then the next phase saw everyone offering to help, which is really, really lovely and fantastic! But knowing what help you actually need, where to go to get it and who to turn to can be confusing – I know I felt it!
So think about what help you need at this moment in time and then look through your networks and the online communities your are part of. Then look outside that – there are new communities popping up every day to support us all at the moment. There are people out there offering specific help, the stuff that is their area of expertise and experience. So pick the ones that are going to help you with you most pressing needs and concerns right now.
Don’t get overwhelmed!
The best way to do that is to proactively seek out the content from the people you know can help you, and just focus on them on social media. Keep consuming their content rather than trying to comment, like and react to everything as you scroll – manage what you put into your mind, otherwise you can get overwhelmed.
So who would be on my Panel of Experts?
Well, I’m loving the positivity and humility of Zoe Ball on BBC Radio 2, as well as the calm normality of fellow DJ Ken Bruce.
I’ve organised a weekly ‘virtual cuppa’ session with the ladies from the local networking group that I run: The Collective: Female Leaders of Farsley. This weekly check-in keeps me grounded and surrounds me with familiar faces.
Remember that yoga teacher I told you about in my recent post about pivoting? Well, Binny’s online yoga classes keep me healthy in mind and body, and daily HIIT sessions with Joe Wicks start my day on an active note – well most days anyway 😉
For business advice, I turn to my coaches, Lisa Johnson and Merilyn Wilson Beretta. And also the network of like-minded passionate business owners that I’ve built around be since launching Cheerleader PR last summer.
I also join online challenges in areas where I need to upskill. These are a great way to try out new experts and meet new people. I have one coming up on passive income, one on systems and processes and am about to attempt a TikTok challenge (wish me luck!). If I like the challenge and feel I need more support in that area then I will consider investing in that particular coach, I’ve found some great experts that way.
They often say that you’re the sum total of the 5 people you spend the most time with. We might be limited due to lockdown when it comes to physical companions, but who can you surround yourself with online who can give you what you need – whether that be business advice, home schooling advice, cookery tips, positivity, health and fitness, inspiration. That choice is still firmly in your hands.
I’d be really interested to know who’s on your panel of experts – tell me in the comments below!
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